Celebrating Chocolate

“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt.” ― Charles M. Schulz

Calling all chocoholics! The Arboretum is celebrating chocolate throughout February and you’re invited to be our official taste-tester. First stop? The Chocolate Expo & Market, held February 1 and 2 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Visitor Center, is free with admission. This year, we're bringing in even more chocolatiers and vendors to show you just how diverse the world of chocolate can be. Sample classics including award-winning truffles and gourmet chocolate sauces or take your taste buds to the extreme with Argentinean alfojores and chocolate balsamic vinegar.

Need more chocolate? Try chocolate-filled strawberries, red velvet whoopee pies, gluten-free desserts from Defloured Bakery, and much more. Be sure to catch our live demonstrations, and get in on our exciting raffles just for attending. Chocolate treats will be available for purchase, so pick up a Valentine’s Day gift, stock up for your Super Bowl party, or just treat yourself.

Next on the all-chocolate agenda is our Truffle-Making Party on February 8 at 2:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m. Here, you'll start with a basic truffle recipe, and learn how to elevate your creations with unique gourmet flavor combinations and make them look like the pros! Plus, enjoy wine and light refreshments, and take home a gift box of up to six truffles. Purchase tickets now!

Be sure to come back for Sweet Home Chicago Dinner on February 15 at 6:00 p.m. featuring historian and author Leslie Goddard. Learn why Chicago has called itself the Candy Capital of America since the turn of the century. Leslie will share the sweet history behind Chicago’s tasty treats, including Frango Mints and Dove Chocolates and test you on your candy knowledge while you enjoy a delicious dinner, perfectly-paired wine, and dippable desserts. End the evening with a stop by the cand bar to make your own treat bag of nostalgic candies to take home. Purchase tickets now!

Need more chocolate? How about learning to cook with chocolate? In our new event series, Chef's Table: Cooking Classes at The Morton Arboretum, learn from our very own Chef Jean-Louis how to prepare a new dish each month. On Thursday, February 20 at 6:00 p.m., discover how to make steak chilli and braised chocolate short ribs Afterwards, engage in a question and answer session with the chef and enjoy your culinary creation. You'll even be able to take home all of the recipies used during the evening. Space is limited, so sign up today.

Last but certainly not least, we're pairing beer & chocolate on February 22 at 6:00 p.m. Let your taste buds dance as you enjoy chocolate delights and locally-brewed craft beers. You'll be amazed at how well these two unlikely pairs harmonize together.